Model History

W124 was the internal chassis designation for the 1985-1995 generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class; it was also the first generation officially referred to as “E-Class”. W124 models replaced the W123 after 1985 and were succeeded by the W210 E-Class after 1995. The R129 SL roadster was based on the W124 platform, and in return the W124 was later equipped with the SL’s 5-litre V8 engines, creating the 500E.

Much of the 124's engineering and many of its features were advanced automotive technology at its introduction, incorporating innovations that have been adopted throughout the industry. It had one of the lowest drag coefficients of any vehicle at the time due to its aerodynamic body that included plastic moulding for the undercarriage to streamline airflow beneath the car, thus reducing fuel consumption and wind noise. It had a single windscreen wiper with an eccentric mechanism at its base that extended the wiper's reach to the top corners of the windscreen, more than if it had travelled in a simple arc. The saloons, coupés, and convertibles had optional rear headrests that would fold down remotely to improve rearward visibility when required.

Mercedes launched the convertible version of the W124, the 300CE-24 cabriolet, in 1991. It was re-designated as the E320 in 1993. The “Sportline” option came as standard with sports seating (although not when leather was specified), wider wheels (7-inch rather than 6.5-inch) with wider profile tyres (205/60 15 rather than 195/65 15), quick ratio steering and a smaller diameter steering wheel, "Sportline" designation on the gearknob, slightly lowered ride height, and a specially tuned suspension including shorter, stiffer springs, struts, anti-roll bars, and bushings.

Exterior

This handsome 124 cabriolet looks magnificent in two-tone metallic silver, a timeless choice for a Mercedes of this vintage. As a factory Sportline the car boasts specially tuned suspension including shorter and stiffer springs, struts, anti-roll bars and bushings for better handling, lower ride height and a more impressive stance. Wider eight-hole wheels and tyres complete the look.

The car presents in really nice condition throughout. There are just a handful of discreet blemishes to report on close inspection, the worst being some minor blemishes along the rear bumper. At the front of the car you’ll find crystal clear headlamps with the handy washer system, and along the sides all panels are looking nice and straight. The Mercedes also sports privacy glass and an electric folding hood, the condition of which is first-rate.

Interior

The interior is really what sets this example apart from the others. The supple upholstery retains an excellent matte sheen, free from the shininess and wear of higher mileage examples. Black leather extends to the door cards, the smaller diameter sports steering wheel, and Sportline gear knob. Both front seats are fully electric with memory for maximum comfort at the touch of a button, and the new-looking rear seats have electrically retractable head restraints that act as a roll bar when the roof is down. Glancing across the dash and along the centre console you’ll find unmarked walnut veneer with the original Mercedes cassette radio in place. The anthracite carpets are also pristine having always been protected in the footwells by tailored Mercedes overmats. The factory-optional fire extinguisher is still fitted below the front passenger seat.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The engine bay is remarkably well preserved, presenting to an excellent standard with no signs of any damage or poor repair upon inspection. There’s no corrosion to be found to any of the painted areas and all ancillaries appear in fine fettle. The car has been freshly serviced at the current mileage and runs beautifully. With a mere 36k miles to its name the engine pulls well and the auto ‘box shifts seamlessly through the gears. The MOT is valid until May 2020.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

One of the Sportline’s main features is the sports chassis with wider wheels and tyres (option code 653). This means that the classic eight-hole design alloys are actually 7 inches wide instead of the usual 6.5 inches. With the wider tyres and specially tuned suspension the Sportline handles remarkably well and has a much more commanding presence on the road.

All four alloys have just returned from Lepsons having been fully refurbished to the highest standard. Brand new OEM centre caps have also been fitted to complete the ‘as new’ finish. The wheels are shod in a matching set of Continental tyres all round, each with ample tread remaining. The brakes perform well on test.

History File

This rare Sportline cabriolet was first registered in April 1994; it was supplied new by Alan Day Mercedes in London. The History File is complete with the original Mercedes wallet and manuals, including the maintenance booklet with 11 service entries at the following mileages: 983, 4k, 9k, 12k, 18k, 24k, 27k, 29k, 31k, 33k, and most recently at 36k. We have just had the car fully inspected, serviced, and MOT’d at the current mileage for the new keeper’s piece of mind.

Whilst Petrol Face Ltd. ("we") attempt to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you examine the vehicle to check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries with regard to any information on our website, please contact us at sales@4starclassics.com. This disclaimer does not affect your statutory rights.